Restoration of a Neo-Classic Townhome

A trip to Charleston, SC offers one a plethora of historic architecture. One of the structures I recently explored is the Nathaniel Russell House. The home is widely recognized as one of America’s most important neoclassical dwellings and has been restored to it’s 1808 grandeur.

Next week you can read about a historic mansion outside of Charleston and compare and contrast the styles that were built within a 50 year span. Note the progression in furnishings from the elaborate rococo ornamentation (Chippendale styled chair from Drayton Hall) to the refinement seen in the Sheraton dining chair used in this home. Attenuated legs, contrasting woods, and complex inlays embody the neoclassic style.

Compare these with the Charleston collection by Baker Furniture. The Baker furniture piece is aptly named the Russell Chair. The 3rd chair below in the white is Barbara Barry’s bracelet chair for Henredon. Do you see a correlation of design inspiration?